5 Ways to Stop Cloth Pad Edges From Fraying

Finish edges before cutting Use a serger or overlock stitch on the fabric edge before you cut the pad. A zigzag stitch with a short length works almost as well if you don’t have a serger.

Wash existing pads in a mesh bag Place pads inside a mesh lingerie bag before washing. This prevents edges from catching on zippers or denim during the cycle.

Air dry instead of machine drying Heat and tumbling accelerate fraying. Air drying is best. If you must use a dryer, set it to low heat.

Choose stronger thread Polyester or cotton-wrapped polyester thread resists fraying better than pure cotton. The thread holds up longer under friction.

Leave a generous seam allowance Keep at least half an inch from the edge of the pad to the seam. More fabric between the edge and stitching gives fraying less room to spread.